Australian Volunteer Coast Guard

The Client

The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association Inc. is a marine Search & Rescue (SAR) non-profit organisation made up of more than 2,500 regular and 9,000 associates, dedicated professional volunteers. Under State and Territory regulations, it helps to provide and maintain, safety on waterways and train boat users in all aspects under accredited education and examination schemes. Its flotilla of 107 rescue distinctive yellow crafts, using 147 radio bases, contributes massively to marine Search & Rescue (SAR) operations by responding to emergencies and rescuing thousands of people each year.

Risks & Consequences

Each of the 107 rescue vessels is strategically stationed and tactically used to provide vital SAR services and support during response marine distress calls. The requirement to protect the personnel along with the operational capabilities of the craft is critical and a serious hazard present that needs to be addressed is that of fire. In marine applications fire could originate from such sources as electrical faults, battery compartment ignitions, fuel leaks and human error. Escalation of the fire to any critical equipment on board the vessel could prove disastrous therefore responding swiftly and effectively is imperative.

The Task

Noosa Cats are Australia’s most widely used rescue and patrol vessels in service. They are designed and built for professional, government and military organisations. The primary concern is rapid detection and suppression of a fire incident within the engine bay. The task is to protect the vessels by installing a fixed extinguishing system that is robust, space and weight saving. Moreover, it must adhere to the latest standards set by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (NSCV Part C Section 4 – Fire Safety).

Why FirePro?

FirePro’s marine condensed aerosol fire suppression systems have an exceptional reliability track record. The systems are non-pressurized, require little maintenance and have a 15-year certified product life. They are tested and proven to withstand the harsh conditions present in the confined spaces of a vessel’s engine bay, such as high humidity, salinity and vibrations. Critically, they are marine rated and are fully compliant with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and its latest requirements. Importantly, FirePro’s condensed aerosol fire extinguishing system is environmentally and ecologically friendly as certified by internationally accredited organizations.

Results of Implementation

FirePro was chosen to safeguard Yeppoon Coast Guard Rescue One and its crew. FirePro Australia designed and completed the installation in a timely manner. The system currently protects the engine bay and other critical equipment ready to activate and suppress fire in case of an incident while at sea. The efficiency and effectiveness of the system along with its long-life span and robustness provide peace of mind to both crew and maintenance teams.